I recently got accepted part-time to WCL as a JD/MPP student (had already been a MPP for a year). I also work for the school, so I get tuition reimbursement as part of my benefits package (up to 20 hrs per calendar year taken care of minus taxes). If I keep working for the school, my debt will only be around 20 to 30k at the end.

You can definitely find housing near the law school for under $1000, but you need to be willing to compromise. I live in a shared house with four others for $500 a month. I suggest looking at Craig's List now and be willing to move down at a moment's notice, or get a temporary place and keep looking for something cheaper. My place is only three short blocks from the school, and a 12 min walk to the Tenleytown Metro Station. We are also at a bus stop.